Push for arthritis and skin quality markers

The BMA and NHS Employers have called for new submissions this month, with oral evidence-giving sessions planned for April and May.

Dr Stephen Hayes, dermatology GPSI in Southampton and a member of the Primary Care Dermatology Society, said he wants something in the quality framework to encourage GPs to implement NICE guidance on skin cancer recognition.

‘Ninety per cent of lesions sent up to clinics are benign, he said. ‘That’s an immense case for better lesion recognition in primary care.’

Better evidence-based treatment for acne should also be included, as should chronic disease management of eczema and psoriasis, he added.

Dr Adam Bajkowski, president of the Primary Care Rheumatology Society (PCRS), said: ‘We did submit last year to get something in the quality framework, but failed for God knows what reason.’

This year, the PCRS will apply for osteoarthritis to be included in the quality framework.

‘GPs do take far more notice of those patients who do have quality framework-related conditions, he said.

The quality framework should also give points for quick referral of patients with suspected rheumatoid arthritis, he added.

The call for evidence in 2005 led to more than 500 submissions. It resulted in dementia, depression, chronic kidney disease, AF, palliative care and obesity all being added to the quality framework.